Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Biography, Career, Family, Net Worth & Death

Who was Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin ? 

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, the co-founder and guitarist of the acclaimed experimental rock band Black Midi, has died at the age of 26 after a long battle with his mental health. His passing has deeply affected fans and fellow musicians around the world.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Biography

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Early Life

A Life in Sound

Matthew Kwasniewski-Kelvin was born in England — though specific details about his birth date and upbringing aren’t widely publicized, what is clear from interviews and accounts is that he developed a strong passion for music early in life. He began playing guitar in his youth, influenced by punk-pop and rock, and occasionally jammed with his father’s band, which helped shape his early musical instincts.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Education & Musical Roots

Matt attended the BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology in London, a renowned institution that has produced several successful musicians. It was here that he met future Black Midi bandmates Geordie Greep, Morgan Simpson, and Cameron Picton — a group of like-minded musicians who would push the boundaries of contemporary rock.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Career

Formation of Black Midi

In 2017, Matt and his friends formed Black Midi, an experimental rock band that rapidly became one of the most talked-about acts in the UK underground scene. Their name — stylized in lowercase — was inspired by the Japanese electronic genre black MIDI, though their music was a unique fusion of post-punk, math rock, noise, and avant-jazz.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Breakthrough: Schlagenheim

Black Midi’s first album, Schlagenheim, was released in June 2019 and earned widespread critical acclaim. Produced by Dan Carey, the record was praised for its abrasive yet inventive sound, and it earned a Mercury Prize nomination — one of the UK’s most prestigious music awards. Matt’s guitar work was integral to the band’s early identity and sound.

Hiatus from the Band

In January 2021, the band announced that Matt was taking time off due to ongoing mental health struggles, emphasizing that he would not participate in upcoming material while he focused on his well-being. Although he remained credited on a few compositions, he did not take part in Black Midi’s second or third albums.

Later Musical Work of Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin

After leaving the band’s day-to-day activities, Matt continued making music independently in London. He contributed as a guest musician to other artists’ work and released a politically charged solo recording in 2024, showcasing his continued creative spirit outside of Black Midi’s framework.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Net Worth

There is no publicly verified source detailing Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s exact net worth. As a founding member of a successful touring and recording band, his income would have come from album sales, live performances, and songwriting royalties. However, without official financial disclosures, any specific figure would be speculative.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Family and Personal Life

Matt was described by family and those close to him as a kind, compassionate, and deeply thoughtful individual. In the statement announcing his death, his family highlighted his loving nature and urged others to check in on loved ones, particularly young men facing mental health challenges.

Details about his immediate family — such as parents or siblings — have not been widely shared in the media, reflecting a respect for privacy during a difficult time.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Death and Legacy

On January 12, 2026, Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin died at the age of 26 after a prolonged struggle with mental health issues, according to a statement from his family released through Rough Trade Records, Black Midi’s label. The exact circumstances of his death have not been publicly disclosed, but his family’s statement emphasized the impact of his health battles and the importance of mental health awareness.

Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow musicians, and critics, celebrating his musical contributions and remembering his influence on a new generation of rock music. Many have also used the moment to underline the importance of supporting those facing similar struggles.

FAQs

Q1. Who was Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin?

Matt was the co-founding guitarist of the British experimental rock band Black Midi, known for its genre-defying sound and critically acclaimed debut Schlagenheim.

Q2. When did he join Black Midi?

He co-founded the band in 2017 with classmates from the BRIT School.

Q3. Why did he leave Black Midi?

Matt stepped away from the band in 2021 due to ongoing mental health issues and focused on his well-being.

Q4. How did he die?

His family announced that he passed away at 26 after a long battle with his mental health. No additional cause has been publicly disclosed.

Q5. Did he release solo music?

Yes — in addition to guest appearances, he released a solo recording in 2024 that reflected his creative voice outside Black Midi.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Funeral Details

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin funeral details like Date and burial details yet to reveal.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin leaves behind a legacy of artistic innovation and fearless exploration in rock music. Though gone far too soon, his work with Black Midi and beyond continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike. His life and passing also serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support.